Want a Whiter Smile? Here Are Your Options

by Dr. Michael Popp on Oct 16, 2015

Just because Halloween is around the corner doesn’t mean you want a frightening smile. Even individuals who brush and floss regularly may find their teeth yellowing, greying or darkening over time either due to staining or age. There are three types of teeth whitening, thought they vary widely in effectiveness with professional whitening being the most effective.

Whitening toothpaste
Though they promise dashing white smiles whitening toothpaste’s tend to have little or no effect on teeth whiteners. This is because stains that have sunk beneath the surface cannot be cleaned away with what the American Dental Association calls "Non Bleaching Whitening Products" which include treatments such as whitening toothpaste which are only able to remove surface stains.

Over the Counter whiteners and dentist dispensed whiteners
According to the American Dental Association many of these products contain carbamide peroxide, which is a water based solution that breaks down into hydrogen peroxide and urea and can be highly effective at whitening teeth. However, they must contain a minimum of 10 percent carbamide peroxide in order to be considered effective by the American Dental Association. These products typically take two to four weeks to yield results. Side effects of peroxide bleaching can include tooth sensitivity and gum irritation, which can also occur because of ill-fitted applicator trays. In rare cases irreversible tooth damage can occur. If you experience any adverse side effects you should discontinue treatment and speak to your dentist immediately. As with any dental care it is always best to consult with your dentist before you begin any at home dental treatments.

Professionally applied bleaching products
Professionally applied bleaching products are the most effective on the market, containing hydrogen peroxide in concentration of 25 to 40 percent and are sometimes paired with a light or laser to improve effectiveness. Unlike over the counter whiteners your dentist will first ensure your gums are protected either by isolating them from the bleaching chemicals using a rubber dam or applying a protective gel. While over the counter whiteners may take several weeks before they yield results according to the American Dental Association professionally applied products typically show the same results in about an hour.